Acceptance Rate
70%
Avg. SAT
1050
75th percentile
“Tennessee State University blends historic legacy with vibrant Nashville energy as a leading HBCU focused on opportunity and community.”
Nashville, TN
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Tennessee State University, founded in 1912 in Nashville, Tennessee, stands as a proud historically Black college and university (HBCU) with a mission rooted in providing access to higher education for underrepresented students. Born from a merger of two institutions, it was initially established to serve African American students during an era of segregation, and today it carries forward a legacy of resilience and empowerment. TSU's campus, split between a main hub and a downtown location, buzzes with a sense of purpose, attracting students who value cultural heritage and seek a tight-knit community where their voices matter. You'll find a mix of local Tennesseans and out-of-state students drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to social impact.
This isn’t a sprawling, impersonal state school; TSU fosters a family-like environment where students often form lifelong bonds. It’s ideal for those who thrive in a supportive setting, especially first-generation college students or those passionate about African American history and culture. However, if you’re looking for a highly selective academic environment or a campus with a rural, isolated feel, TSU might not be the right fit—its urban setting and more accessible admissions process (with an acceptance rate of around 83%) cater to a broader range of learners.
Nestled in the heart of Nashville, TSU benefits from the city’s dynamic music scene, thriving job market, and cultural diversity, offering students endless off-campus exploration. From catching live shows on Broadway to interning at nearby businesses, you’re never far from inspiration. That said, the urban location comes with a higher cost of living compared to rural college towns, and navigating city life can feel overwhelming for some.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Tennessee State University shines in fields like agriculture, education, and health sciences, reflecting its land-grant status and commitment to practical, community-focused learning. Its College of Agriculture is a standout, with programs tackling real-world issues like food security and sustainable farming, while the nursing and physical therapy programs draw students eager to enter high-demand healthcare careers. You’ll often find professors who prioritize mentorship, eager to guide you through hands-on projects or connect you with local internships, especially in Nashville’s growing industries.
Classroom experiences can vary—some introductory courses might feel crowded, as is common at many public universities, but upper-level classes often shrink in size, allowing for deeper discussions. Research opportunities exist, particularly in agriculture and STEM, though they may require initiative to seek out compared to larger research-heavy institutions. If you’re a self-starter who values applied learning over theoretical rigor, TSU’s academic vibe will suit you well, though highly competitive students might find the pace or resources less challenging than at more selective schools.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
5,057 undergrad • 1,253 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
9%
Black / African American
77%
Hispanic / Latino
3%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
11%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Nashville, TN
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Tennessee State University pulses with pride and tradition, centered around a strong sense of community that’s palpable during events like Homecoming, where alumni and students unite for parades, step shows, and football games. You can expect a lively social scene with Greek life playing a big role, alongside student organizations that celebrate Black culture through dance, music, and advocacy. Most undergraduates live on campus, especially in their early years, fostering close connections, though housing can fill up quickly, so applying early is wise.
Off the field, Nashville’s influence seeps into daily life—weekends might mean exploring local eateries or catching a concert, but the city’s fast pace and traffic can be a hassle for some. The weather, with hot, humid summers and mild winters, keeps outdoor activities viable year-round, though summer heat can test your patience. While the social environment is warm and inclusive, students seeking a quieter, less urban college experience might feel out of place amid the constant energy of both campus and city.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Ohio Valley Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
33%
4 Years Graduation Rate
30%
6 Years Graduation Rate
40%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$42,730
33% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Tennessee State University and return in the fall. 30% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 40% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
30%
4-5 years
10%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
59%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$7,128
Acceptance
70%
Undergrads
5,057
4-Year Grad Rate
30%
Endowment
$100M
Nashville, TN 37209-1561
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